Introduction
In 2019, around 2,360 tons of battery waste and about 213,810 tons of waste from electrical and electronic equipment were generated in Chile, of which only 4.1% was recycled.
New Decree Announcement
The Ministry of the Environment has initiated a public consultation process for the "Preliminary Draft Supreme Decree that establishes collection and recovery goals and other associated obligations for Batteries and Electrical and Electronic Devices." This consultation underscores the primary requirements for the appropriate management of this waste, as outlined in Law No. 20,920 (REP Law), which indicates that these products are priorities for extended producer responsibility.
Goals of the Draft
The aim of this decree is to establish collection and recovery targets and other responsibilities for producers who introduce batteries and/or electrical or electronic devices to the national market, as well as for marketers and waste managers. This initiative seeks to promote a more sustainable approach to managing these waste materials, which can have harmful effects on the environment and public health if not properly handled. Moreover, much of this waste consists of components that can be reused and recycled, thus prolonging their life and maintaining their presence within the production cycle.
Consultation Process
The preliminary draft was published in the Official Gazette on March 10, and the citizen consultation process is set to conclude on April 22.
Upcoming Activities
The planned activities will be conducted virtually, with the first webinar scheduled for Thursday, March 31, at 10:30 a.m. (Chile Time). This session will cover the primary components of the draft project and other relevant topics concerning the proposed initiative.
Participation Invitation
Those interested in contributing their observations, questions, and other input can review the entire preliminary draft at Ministry of Environment Consultation - http://consultasciudadanas.mma.gob.cl.
Source
Based on the Chilean Environmental Ministry Website